The Lithuanian National Olympic Committee (LTOK) has decided to immediately suspend the accreditation of Estonian coach Raimo Reinsalu for the upcoming Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics. This decision follows a negative assessment from the International Skating Union (ISU) concerning allegations of abuse against Latvian figure skater Sofja Stepečenko. The suspensions come amid ongoing concerns regarding the coaching practices at the "Kristal Ice" training academy, which has been implicated in a criminal investigation launched by the State Police.

Earlier reports highlighted a negative experience reported by Stepečenko involving Reinsalu and his co-coach Olga Kovaļkova, who also trains another figure skater, Fedir Kuļiš, recently granted Latvian citizenship. Kovaļkova remains part of the Latvian delegation for the Olympics, while Reinsalu has been representing the Lithuanian team. The discovery of public accusations against Reinsalu close to the Olympics has triggered significant scrutiny and resulted in his immediate removal from the accreditation list.

This situation not only affects Reinsalu’s professional standing but also shines a light on broader issues within the figure skating community regarding coaching methods and athlete welfare. The rapid response from LTOK signifies a heightened awareness of allegations related to abuse in sports, emphasizing the need for protective measures for athletes and the importance of accountability within coaching relationships, particularly in the lead-up to a major international event like the Olympics.